first-ever 'Reach for the Stars' Award

Allison Schroeder, screenwriter for the hit film “Hidden Figures,” will be the recipient of the first-ever “Reach for the Stars” Award when the American Space Museum holds its Reach for the Stars Reception on Thursday, April 20.

BREVARD COUNTY • TITUSVILLE, FLORIDA – Allison Schroeder, screenwriter for the hit film “Hidden Figures,” will be the recipient of the first-ever “Reach for the Stars” Award when the American Space Museum holds its Reach for the Stars Reception on Thursday, April 20.

The Titusville museum (formerly known as the U.S. Walk of Fame Museum) is initiating the award as an annual effort to recognize up to two current or former Space Coast residents who have promoted and supported the space program and/or STEM/STEAM education.

Also being honored at the event is long-time museum official and former NASA employee, Charles Mars.

The museum is partnering with Eastern Florida State College by holding the event at the EFSC Planetarium in Cocoa.

“Growing up on the Space Coast, NASA was a part of my childhood,” said Schroeder.

“My grandparents worked there, and when I was in high school, I took part in NASA’s NURTURE program. From learning binary coding to how to make a circuit board, STEM was always a part of my life. But when I moved away to college, I realized that wasn’t true for many students, especially girls and minorities. I truly hope Hidden Figures inspires the next generation of STEM students, showing them that no matter one’s race or gender, they can ‘reach for the stars.’”

The reception begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature astronauts and local VIPs, as well as displays relating to the museum’s STEAM Space program, a silent and live auction led by Sheriff Wayne Ivey, planetarium shows and, of course, the awards ceremony.

Tara Dixon Engel, Executive Director of the American Space Museum.

“When our committee discussed the award recipients for this new initiative, Allison’s name was front and center,” said Tara Dixon Engel, Executive Director.

“Her powerful screenplay for Hidden Figures tells a previously untold story about the role of women and minorities in the success of the space program. That should inspire young people from all walks of life. And, of course, we also wanted to spotlight the dedication of our former President and current board member, Charlie Mars. Charlie maintained and grew this museum through sheer force of will. His devotion to preserving space history and honoring the men and women with whom he worked is inspiring.”